Yemen Airstrikes on Market and Factory Raise Fears Over Civilian Safety and Livelihoods

According to the San'a based health ministry, a series of airstrikes hit Al-Hazm Central Market around midday on Wednesday while shoppers were present. Nearby residential homes and a fuel station were also reportedly targeted. The ministry's initial report recorded 13 deaths and 16 injuries, including three women. It also reported extensive damage to commercial shops and neighboring homes. In a separate statement, INSAN Organization reported a different toll, saying 14 civilians were killed, including three children and two women, while 15 others were injured. The casualty figures provided by the two sources differ and have not been independently verified. INSAN also condemned the reported targeting of Kimiko Paint Manufacturing Company in Taiz, warning that damage to the facility could pose environmental and public health risks. The organization said the incident could threaten the livelihoods of approximately 500 families whose income depends on the company's employees and continued operations. The organization described the reported attacks as a dangerous escalation against Yemen's civilian and economic infrastructure, warning that damage to markets and industrial facilities could deepen humanitarian hardship, destroy livelihoods and disrupt economic activity. Both statements attributed the attacks to Saudi forces. The health ministry condemned the reported strikes on the market, residential areas and fuel station, calling for investigations and international accountability. INSAN urged independent and transparent investigations into both incidents and called for those responsible to be held accountable. It also appealed to the international community to take concrete measures to protect civilians and essential civilian infrastructure in Yemen.